BCS Practitioner Award in Cloud Infrastructure Architecture

Design, secure and optimise the cloud infrastructure that powers modern business. The BCS Practitioner Award in Cloud Infrastructure Architecture gives you the advanced knowledge and skills to plan, design and manage scalable IT infrastructure solutions across hybrid and cloud environments.

This course is ideal for IT professionals who want to understand the architectural considerations of cloud computing, infrastructure management, and enterprise systems integration. You’ll explore how to translate business and technical requirements into resilient, cost-effective architectures — ensuring performance, security and compliance at every stage.

Study online at your own pace with two short video calls with a live tutor, and achieve a globally recognised certification that strengthens your professional credibility and career prospect.

You must have passed the BCS Foundation Certificate in Architecture Concepts and Domains course, or have a current TOGAF 9 or current TOGAF 10 level 2 certificate before you start this course. It is also advised that candidates hold a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an architecture role.
Pay with Klarna, PayPal, or card – interest-free instalments available, no credit check. Contact us to arrange live training or payment via invoice.

Accredited Excellence You Can Trust

Duco Digital is a BCS-accredited provider, delivering training that meets the highest standards in digital and data protection. Each module follows the official BCS exam syllabus, equipping you with the knowledge, confidence, and recognition to succeed.

Trusted by professionals and organisations worldwide. Certified by BCS, The Chartered Institute for IT.

About the Course

The BCS Specialist Award in Cloud Infrastructure Architecture provides a deep understanding of the technologies, patterns and principles that underpin modern IT infrastructure design. You’ll learn how to apply architectural frameworks and governance processes to ensure reliability, scalability and alignment with organisational goals.

You'll learn:

 • Cloud and infrastructure architecture frameworks – understand the structures and standards guiding design decisions.
 • Network, storage, and compute design – create architectures that support hybrid and multi-cloud strategies.
 • Security, resilience and compliance – ensure protection, continuity and regulatory adherence.
 • Cost optimisation and performance management – balance service levels, risk and return on investment.
 • Architecture governance – embed standards and policies to support sustainable infrastructure.

What you get:

 • Approx. 18 hours of online learning with 12 months’ access
 • BCS eCertificate on passing your exam
 • 1 year access to over 100 BCS books in buisness and technology, including the essential BCS business analysis books to help you pass this course
 • 1-year BCS Associate Membership (worth £92) after passing exam
 • Exam fee included — no hidden extras
 • Pass Assist package with live tutor support, practice exams, 1 year access to recommended BCS books to help you pass this course, and exclusive video guides.
Write your awesome label here.
Course Syllabus
Course Requirements
Career Path
course subjects you will learn

Course Syllabus

Role of Cloud Architecture
Key Artefacts used by Cloud Infrastructure Architects
Security Concepts Related to Cloud Computing
Use of Design Considerations and Standards for Private Cloud Operation
Risks and Appropriate Strategies such as NIST SP800-125A, SIEM, RBAC
Use of Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
Governance Concerns including ISO 27050, GDPR, UK DPA, Cloud Security Alliance (CSA), Cloud Control
Matrix (CCM), Center for Digital Government
(CDG)
Use of
auditing mechanisms
Impact of Emergent Related Technologies on Cloud Infrastructure - AI, Blockchain, IoT, Robotics, AR
Legislation and Professional Standards in Security Architecture, ISO 27001,
ISO 27017, ISO 17789, TOGAF, SANS Institute, ITIL, CIS
Eligibility for the course

Course Requirements

You must have passed
the BCS Foundation Certificate in Architecture Concepts and Domains course, or have a current TOGAF 9 or current TOGAF 10 level 2 certificate. It is also advised that candidates hold a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an architecture role.
A good level of English
is recommended
An internet connection with a mobile/tablet or laptop is required

Not sure if this course is right for you?
Contact us to check your suitability before starting.

career opportunities 

Career Path

Architecture skills are essential in organisations that rely on complex systems, data, and digital transformation. While IT architecture is relevant across every industry, it is especially valuable in sectors such as:

  • Information Technology (IT)
  • Cloud Computing Infrastructure
  • Cybersecurity
  • Finance and Banking
  • Government and Public Sector
  • Healthcare and Life Sciences
  • Telecommunications
  • Energy and Utilities
  • Defence and Aerospace
  • Education and Research
  • Consulting and Digital Transformation
This qualification is suitable for candidates who are looking to begin their career in architecture or for those looking to broaden their understanding of other architecture domains. 

It can be taken as a standalone qualification, or in combination with other BCS IT Architecture courses in the BCS IT Architecture Pathway, however you must have passed the
BCS Foundation Certificate in Architecture Concepts and Domains course, or have a current TOGAF 9 or current TOGAF 10 level 2 certificate. It is also advised that candidates hold a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an architecture role.
Empty space, drag to resize

Pass Assist

Your course price isn’t just for learning materials — it includes the complete Pass Assist package, designed to give you the best chance of passing your BCS exam with confidence.

Empty space, drag to resize

Two live video calls

Two live video calls with your course trainer for Q&A and a deeper understanding

Practice exam papers

Practice exam papers to test your knowledge and get exam-ready

Exclusive video guides

Exclusive video guides to make a learning plan, maximise the course, and prepare effectively

Tutor 
support

Tutor support via forum, email, and WhatsApp for help whenever you need it

BCS exam included 

BCS exam fee included — take your exam when you’re ready, at no extra cost

BCS
Books

1 year access to over 100 BCS books in buisness and technology, including the essential BCS business analysis books to help you pass this course
Empty space, drag to resize

EMPLOYERS
NEED IT ARCHITECTURE SKILLS

30%

Industry research shows that up to 30% of cloud spend is wasted due to poor architecture, lack of governance, and inefficient infrastructure design

£70 - 100k 

Cloud architects and infrastructure architects consistently rank in the top 10 highest-paid IT roles

50%

Studies regularly report that over 50% of cloud migration initiatives fail to meet expectations due to performance, security, or integration issues — not technology limitations.

Learners from These Organisations Choose Us

Meet your instructor

Tahir Ahmed

Experienced IT Professional and BCS Accredited IT Architecture Trainer
Empty space, drag to resize
With over 40 years of experience in the global IT industry, Tahir has held senior roles in Architecture, Programme and Project Management, Business and Systems Analysis, Database Design, and Software Development. A Physics graduate with an M.Sc. in Distributed Information Systems, he brings a wealth of practical knowledge to his teaching. Known for his clear and engaging style, he’s passionate about helping learners understand complex ideas with ease and confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is BCS?

BCS, the Chartered Institute for IT, is a globally recognised professional body trusted by corporations, academics, and IT practitioners alike. With more than 60,000 members across 150 countries,

BCS connects a diverse network of business leaders, educators, policy-makers, and technology professionals. Its mission is to guide the IT industry through ethical challenges, support the development of those working within the sector, and promote technology that benefits society as a whole. Through its qualifications, events, and community initiatives, BCS fosters professional growth, thought leadership, and responsible innovation in IT worldwide.

Why should I take this course?

 • How to design and document cloud and infrastructure architectures
 • The role of architecture principles, frameworks, and governance
 • How to address security, performance, and resilience requirements
 • How to integrate cloud services with enterprise systems
 • The competencies and responsibilities of a technical architect

This course is ideal if you want to gain confidence, credibility, and a professional qualification that shows you understand the fundamentals of IT and enterprise architecture — a skillset increasingly valued in today’s digital economy.

Who is this course for?

This course is ideal for professionals involved in IT infrastructure and cloud solution design, including:
 • Technical and infrastructure architects
 • Cloud engineers and solution designers
 • IT managers, systems administrators, and consultants
 • Professionals progressing through the BCS IT Architecture Specialist pathway.

You must have passed the BCS Foundation Certificate in Architecture Concepts and Domains, or have a current TOGAF 9 or current TOGAF 10 level 2 certificate. It is also advised that candidates hold a minimum of 3 years’ experience in an architecture role.

What does the course include?

  • Online access to structured modules and lessons that follow the official BCS syllabus
  • Pass Assist support package (tutor calls, practice papers, video guides, discussion forum, email/WhatsApp support)
  • 1 year access to the BCS eLibrary of over 100 ebooks in business and technology and includes the recommended BCS books for this course
  • A personal course login that saves your progress
  • Exam booking guidance and support
  • A BCS eCertificate and 1-year Associate Membership* when you pass
  • VAT.


*New BCS members only

What is Pass Assist?

Pass Assist is our unique support package designed to give you the knowledge, skills, and confidence to pass your BCS exam.

When you enroll in this course, Pass Assist gives you:
  • Two live video calls with your course trainer to ask questions and deepen your understanding
  • Practice exam papers to test your knowledge and get familiar with the exam format
  • Exclusive video guides to help you make a learning plan, get the most from the course, and prepare effectively for the exam
  • Ongoing tutor support via discussion forum, email, and WhatsApp for guidance whenever you need it


With Pass Assist, you’re never learning alone—you have the tools and support to succeed.

When is the start date of the course?

Self-study: Begin right after enrolment — learn anytime, anywhere. Book a 15-minute welcome call and a 15-minute exam prep session with your trainer directly via the course link.

Live training: Held on mutually agreed dates. Contact us to check availability.

How to start the course?

Enrol online now with card, PayPal, or Klarna — or contact us for invoice/bank transfer.

If you prefer live training, please contact us or message us on WhatsApp with a date you would like the training and any requirements, for example, the number of people. 

We train individuals and support teams with their training needs in organisations, colleges, universities, and government departments in different countries. Contact us if you have any questions.

What happens after I enroll?

  1. Click on the enrolment email to gain access.
  2. Complete your study
  3. Book your BCS exam using the link in the BCS email sent to you 14 days after enrolment
  4. Take your exam
  5. Download your BCS certificate from your BCS exam account when you pass
  6. Access your free* 1-year BCS Associate membership from the link in your BCS exam account when you pass
  7. Create a BCS professional profile, access further learning, build networks, and access career tools with a BCS membership

*New BCS members only

What is studying with Duco Digital Training like?


  • Self-paced learning that fits around your schedule

  • Step-by-step modules aligned with the syllabus

  • Our unique Pass Assist package of tutor support, BCS-recommended Books* discussion forums, and exam preparation resources

  • Accredited courses trusted by organisations worldwide

  • BCS certification and membership** that add real career value.


*BCS eBooks as recommended on your syllabus
** Pass the BCS exam to claim your certification. Membership for new BCS members only.

I prefer live training — how can I book this?

Prefer learning in real time with a trainer? We offer live online training for groups of two or more. If you’re learning solo, you can invite a friend or colleague to join. To book, just contact us with your preferred dates and group size, and we’ll confirm availability and customise the session to your needs.

Can organisations buy this course for teams?

Yes. Duco Digital Training partners with organisations, colleges, universities, and government departments around the world. We can enrol teams of any size, giving each learner their own login, progress tracking, and Pass Assist support. Payment is available by invoice or bank transfer, and our self-study approach allows groups to learn consistently, at their own pace, while keeping costs manageable.

How long will I have access to the course? 

You have 12 months to complete all BCS courses and take the exam. For career pathways that include multiple courses, simply contact us if you need extra time.

Live Training for Companies

Looking to train a team?* We deliver bespoke live training for organisations worldwide – online or onsite. Tailored sessions, group discounts, and the same exam-ready Pass Assist package.
*minimum of two people
Write your awesome label here.

What People Say About Us

The course is really thorough about AI in general, and it covers all of the basic knowledge about AI. As a lecturer myself, I will teach this to my students.
Cholid
The training provided will assist me to conduct AI research projects in a more professional and systematic way. The knowledge provided will be incredibly valuable for my future study in the field of computer vision.
Muhammad
Good training materials for remote learning, and the most impressive part was the speed at which they responded to questions. I also had issues with the exam (through the exam platform, not Duco) and they were really helpful in resolving it.
Tom
The course is really thorough about AI in general, and it covers all of the basic knowledge about AI. As a lecturer myself, I will teach this to my students.
Cholid
The training provided will assist me to conduct AI research projects in a more professional and systematic way. The knowledge provided will be incredibly valuable for my future study in the field of computer vision.
Muhammad
Good training materials for remote learning, and the most impressive part was the speed at which they responded to questions. I also had issues with the exam (through the exam platform, not Duco) and they were really helpful in resolving it.
Tom

Get in touch today to discuss enrolment, team training, or payment options.

Created with